A qualitative investigation of a prenatal yoga intervention to prevent excessive gestational weight gain: A thematic analysis of interviews

Purpose: To describe pregnant women's experiences and perceived facilitators/barriers of a prenatal yoga intervention to prevent excessive gestational weight gain (EGWG). Methods: Pregnant women (N = 13) were interviewed after participation in a 12-week prenatal yoga intervention to prevent EGWG. Interviews were summarized using thematic analysis. Results: Twelve themes were identified and organized into four categories: 1) experiences of prenatal yoga (positive experience/enjoyment, pain relief, connecting to body), 2) prenatal yoga and weight (increased mindfulness/self-awareness, increased physical activity, weight management), 3) barriers to prenatal yoga (physical body, commute/traffic, schedule), and 4) facilitators of prenatal yoga (healthy pregnancy, support from other pregnant women, the feeling from prenatal yoga). Conclusion: Prenatal yoga may relieve pain and help women be more connected to their bodies. Prenatal yoga may also help women become more aware of their health behaviors and increases their physical activity which may have important implications for reducing EGWG.